Registration eligibility FAQs
Any Thoroughbred bred for racing is eligible to register with RoR, whether or not they’ve been in training.
1. What is the new eligibility for registration with Retraining of Racehorses (RoR)?
RoR now allows all Thoroughbreds bred for racing to register with us free of charge, regardless of whether they have been in training. These horses will receive a newly created "NT" (Not been in training) number to ensure they can still access our support services.
2. Why has the eligibility been expanded?
The change was made to improve traceability across the racing industry in Great Britain and ensure that all Thoroughbreds bred for racing, not just those that have raced or been in training, can receive the necessary welfare and educational support throughout their lives.
3. What categories of Thoroughbreds can now register with RoR?
The updated eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Not been in training (NT): Thoroughbreds bred for racing but never entered into training with a licensed trainer.
- Not raced (NR): Thoroughbreds that have been in training but did not race, or have raced abroad but not in Great Britain.
- Raced in GB: Thoroughbreds that have raced in Great Britain, including point-to-pointers.
4. How does the registration process work for Thoroughbreds that have not been in training?
Thoroughbreds that have not been in training will now be assigned an "NT" (not been in training) number upon registration. To maintain traceability, these horses will still need to have an official racing passport (e.g. Weatherbys’ passport or one from an equivalent international racing authority).
5. What support will Thoroughbreds who have not raced or been in training receive?
All Thoroughbreds that register with RoR, including those that have not been in training, will have access to a range of educational programmes designed to support their transition into second careers. This includes clinics, camps, and events to foster lasting partnerships between horse and rider.
6. Will this change impact RoR’s competition series?
At this stage, our competition series remains limited to Thoroughbreds that have been in training or have raced. This ensures a level playing field, where all horses have similar training and racing experience. We will continue to review and may revisit this policy in the future to adapt to any changes in the competitive landscape.
7. How will this change improve traceability across the racing industry?
By allowing all Thoroughbreds bred for racing to register with RoR, we can track and support to ensure that no horse is lost in the system, and every horse receives the appropriate welfare support when needed.
8. Is there a cost for Thoroughbreds bred for racing to register with RoR?
No, registration is free of charge for all Thoroughbreds bred for racing.
9. Will Thoroughbreds that have raced abroad be eligible to register with RoR?
Yes, all Thoroughbreds bred for racing and are current residents in Great Britian can register with RoR.
10. How does this change align with RoR’s long-term strategy?
This change reflects RoR’s commitment to supporting the wellbeing of all former racehorses, as outlined in the RoR Strategy 2024-2026. It ensures that Thoroughbreds bred for racing, regardless of their race or training history, have access to the support and educational opportunities they need for a successful second career.
11. How can I register my Thoroughbred with RoR?
You can register your Thoroughbred by visiting www.ror.org.uk/registration and following the registration process. Ensure your horse has an official racing passport, such as a Weatherbys’ passport registered with the General Stud Book (GSB) or an equivalent international racing authority, to complete the registration.
12. Will Thoroughbreds with no training history be eligible to participate in educational events?
Yes, as part of the expanded eligibility, RoR is committed to providing educational resources and support to all registered horses, including those that have never been in training. These resources will help with their transition and ensure they have access to the necessary welfare programmes.
13. What if I have previously tried to register my horse but was unsuccessful due to no training history?
Please email loneil@ror.org.uk and we can assist in reinstating your horse’s registration.